Advance Directive

An advance directive is a legal form you fill out to say what kinds of medical care you want if you aren't able to make decisions for yourself. It tells your family and your doctor what to do if you're badly hurt or have a serious illness that keeps you from saying what you want.

There are two main types of advance directives: a living will and a medical power of attorney.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Shelly R. Garone, MD, FACP - Palliative Medicine

Last Revised

October 9, 2012

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